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FNC → LGW
Which side of the plane to sit from Madeira Airport (Funchal) to London Gatwick Airport (London)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most dramatic panoramic views of Madeira's rugged northern coast during takeoff, a better chance of seeing the Channel Islands, and the iconic English south coast landmarks upon descent.
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Madeira's North Coast
Dramatic views of the lush, jagged volcanic cliffs and deep valleys of the island immediately after takeoff.
Porto Santo Island
The neighboring island with its long golden sand beach is often visible shortly after departure.
Brittany Coast
The rugged, rocky coastline of western France, specifically the area around Brest and the Iroise Sea.
Channel Islands
Bird's-eye views of Jersey, Guernsey, and Alderney as the flight crosses from France to England.
Isle of Wight
Clear views of the 'Needles' chalk formations and the island's distinct diamond shape.
South Downs
The rolling green hills and white chalk landscapes of southern England during the descent into Gatwick.
Sit on the left for the best morning light on the Madeira mountains and to watch the sunset over the Atlantic on evening flights. During the final 20 minutes, keep your camera ready for the Isle of Wight and the English coastline, which provide excellent photo opportunities as the plane begins its final approach.
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FNC Runway Pillars
A close-up view of the massive concrete pillars supporting the extended runway at Madeira Airport.
Desertas Islands
Uninhabited, reddish-brown volcanic islands visible to the east during the initial climb.
French Atlantic Coast
Distant views of the Bay of Biscay and the beaches near La Rochelle or Nantes depending on the route.
Mont Saint-Michel
If the flight path takes an inland route through France, this famous tidal island can sometimes be spotted.
Brighton Shoreline
Views of the iconic Brighton Pier and the British seaside as the plane crosses the coast.
The right side is ideal for morning flights to avoid direct glare from the sun. It provides a unique perspective of the engineering marvel that is the Funchal runway. Look out for the French coastline during the mid-flight segment, as the plane often hugs the coast of Normandy before heading north toward London.
Book Hotels in LondonDistance: 2,456 km (1,526 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 16 min
Departure: FNC (32.697899, -16.7745)
Arrival: LGW (51.148102, -0.190278)
Route Type: International
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